The 63rd Hexagram of the Zhou Yi – Jì Jì (既济) Hexagram
The Jì Jì hexagram is a stacked hexagram, with the lower trigram being lí (离), symbolizing fire, and the upper trigram being kǎn (坎), symbolizing water. Water and fire intersect in this hexagram, with water sitting on top of fire, signifying that water overcomes fire, completing the task of extinguishing the flames. The term jì (既) means “already,” and jì (济) means “to succeed or accomplish.” Jì Jì implies that success has been achieved, but change is imminent, and caution is required.
This hexagram follows the Xiǎo Guò (小过) hexagram. In the Xù Guà (序卦), it is explained: “Those who have exceeded in small matters must be corrected; thus, it is followed by Jì Jì.” Small faults, when corrected, lead to success, which is why Jì Jì comes next.
Interpretation by Duàn Yì Tiānjī (断易天机)
The Jì Jì hexagram, with kǎn (坎) over lí (离), is the third hexagram in the kǎn (坎) trigram sequence. Jì Jì signifies that success has been achieved, but one must remain cautious as things may take an unexpected turn. The change symbolized in this hexagram warns that the success may be followed by difficulties, as extreme prosperity often leads to decline.
Interpretation by Song Dynasty Scholar Shao Yong
Shao Yong, a renowned scholar of the Song Dynasty, interpreted this hexagram as indicating success through assistance, perseverance, and self-respect. Jì Jì represents a stage where one has achieved success and needs to remain vigilant. The key is to understand that success will inevitably lead to a decline if one does not recognize when to step back.
Interpretation by Taiwanese Scholar Fu Peirong
- Fortune: Extreme success will inevitably lead to decline. One must be cautious about potential future issues.
- Financial fortune: If action is taken at the right moment, profit can be achieved.
- Family: A large house is available for habitation; a prosperous marriage is in sight.
- Health: After recovering from a major illness, one should remain cautious and continue to take care of oneself.
Traditional Interpretation of the Jì Jì Hexagram
This hexagram is formed by the lí (离) trigram of fire below and the kǎn (坎) trigram of water above. Water overcomes fire, symbolizing the successful completion of a task, like extinguishing a fire. Jì (既) means “already,” and Jì (济) means “to complete” or “to succeed.” Jì Jì signifies that success has been achieved, but change is inevitable, and one must remain vigilant for potential future challenges.
The Image (Dà Xiàng) of the Hexagram:
- Water above fire: Water naturally descends, and fire rises. When they interact, the fire is extinguished by the water, completing the task at hand. This symbolizes the completion of an endeavor but also hints that after success, caution is necessary.
Fortune: This hexagram suggests success and the potential for both fame and wealth. However, it also warns that extreme success leads to decline. The beginning may be favorable, but one must remain cautious to avoid future difficulties.
Career: You are currently in a period of smooth progress and success, possibly completing a major task. The key is to maintain this momentum. Recognizing that success often leads to its opposite, preparing for potential challenges, and acting with foresight will help you sustain progress.
Business: The market is favorable, and you’ve earned much, but danger may arise at any moment. Therefore, vigilance is necessary. Always prepare for challenges before they occur, and be ready to adapt to market changes.
Pursuit of Fame: The conditions for achieving fame and recognition are in place. However, one must guard against becoming complacent or rigid, as this could lead to failure or abandoning the pursuit halfway.
Love and Marriage: Initially, things are going well, but setbacks may arise later in the process.
Decision-Making: All conditions are favorable, and the environment supports growth. However, this success could lead to complacency, causing stagnation or decline. To avoid this, maintain humility and continuous effort. Always remain vigilant, avoid overconfidence, and be ready to adapt to unforeseen circumstances.
Key Insights from the Jì Jì Hexagram:
- Success has been achieved, but it is essential to recognize that prosperity has its limits, and decline often follows after reaching a peak.
- To maintain success, one must be cautious, plan ahead, and adapt to changing circumstances. Avoid complacency and always be prepared for the next challenge.
- Vigilance is necessary, even in times of accomplishment, as conditions can shift unexpectedly.
Philosophical Meaning of the First Line of the Jì Jì Hexagram
Line text: Chū jiǔ (初九): Yì qí lún, rú qí wěi, wú jiù.
Interpretation: This line advises slowing down by dragging the wheels of a cart and preventing it from speeding. A small fox crossing a river wets its tail and is unable to swim quickly, but there is no harm or disaster.
Philosophical Message:
- When this line appears in a reading, remember: While things may seem already accomplished (jì 既), rushing forward abruptly is not advisable.
- Proceed carefully, as cautious thought will naturally lead to good fortune.
- Like a deer running out from the clouds or a person returning home under the sun, it’s a reminder that there’s no need to worry about minor inconveniences.
- Taking slow and deliberate steps may cause temporary delays, but there is no real cause for concern.
- A journey of a thousand miles begins with careful and steady steps, even if the boat is isolated, there is no immediate harm.
Transformation of the First Line:
When the first line changes, it leads to the Jiǎn (蹇) hexagram (Hexagram 39 in the Zhou Yi). This hexagram is formed by the combination of the gèn (艮) trigram below and the kǎn (坎) trigram above. Gèn symbolizes a mountain (immovable), and kǎn symbolizes water (dangerous). The combination of the two indicates a situation full of difficulties and obstacles—like a mountain blocking the flow of water. This hexagram suggests facing difficulties head-on, but also knowing when to stop and wait, acting prudently to ensure survival and success in the long term.
Philosophical Meaning of the Second Line of the Jì Jì Hexagram
Line text: Liù èr (六二): Fù sàng qí fú, wù zhú, qī rì dé.
Interpretation: This line tells of a noblewoman who loses the curtain covering her cart but is advised not to search for it, as it will return in seven days. The message here is that things lost or missed will often return to us in due time, and excessive pursuit will be fruitless.
Philosophical Message:
- Although things seem to be progressing, rushing to complete them can lead to difficulties.
- Stay true to your course and be patient. In due time, everything will fall into place.
- There is no need to force things. When the right time comes, things will naturally resolve themselves.
- Just as a cloud covers the moon and darkens the sky, things may seem uncertain, but in time, clarity will come.
- Like the crescent moon rising, there is a hidden opportunity that will soon manifest.
Transformation of the Second Line:
When the second line changes, it leads to the Xū (需) hexagram (Hexagram 5 in the Zhou Yi), formed by the qián (乾) trigram below and the kǎn (坎) trigram above. Qián symbolizes strength and perseverance, while kǎn represents danger and difficulty. This hexagram suggests being patient and waiting for the right moment. It advises not to act hastily but to remain calm and prudent, as success will eventually come if the right conditions are met.
Philosophical Meaning of the Third Line of the Jì Jì Hexagram
Line text: Jiǔ sān (九三): Gāo zōng fá guǐ fāng, sān nián kè zhī; xiǎo rén wù yòng.
Interpretation: This line refers to King Wu Ding of the Yin Dynasty, who spent three years conquering the Guifang tribe in the northwest. The victory came only after much effort and perseverance. The lesson here is that long-term efforts will bring success, but one must avoid using dishonest or reckless people, as they may cause chaos and internal conflict.
Philosophical Message:
- Rewards will come from hard work, but they are often hard-earned.
- A long and challenging journey lies ahead, and sudden advances may be difficult to achieve.
- It is important to remain diligent and cautious in leadership and avoid shortcuts or improper actions that can bring disaster.
- Just as a successful military campaign requires patience and strategic planning, so does the pursuit of success in life.
Transformation of the Third Line:
When the third line changes, it leads to the Zhún (屯) hexagram (Hexagram 3 in the Zhou Yi). This hexagram is formed by the zhèn (震) trigram below and the kǎn (坎) trigram above. Zhèn symbolizes thunder (movement), and kǎn symbolizes water (danger). The combination of these two suggests that difficulties and challenges arise when one is on the path to growth, but with perseverance and careful handling, progress will eventually be made. This hexagram emphasizes the need for perseverance, particularly when faced with adverse conditions, and assures that success will come in time.
Philosophical Meaning of the Fourth Line of the Jì Jì Hexagram
Line text: Liù sì (六四): Xū yǒu yī rú, zhōng rì jiè.
Interpretation: This line advises that when crossing a river by boat, one should prepare to patch the boat with rags or cotton in case it leaks, maintaining vigilance throughout the day to prevent disaster.
Philosophical Message:
- Even though things may seem to be in a state of completion (jì 既), there may still be underlying concerns. Worry and caution at this time can turn potential success into failure.
- Staying vigilant and prepared will help safeguard both the beginning and the end of an endeavor.
- One should not be content with only partial success or recognition. The benefits and rewards should be approached with caution, as premature enjoyment can lead to trouble.
- Just as flowers fall in disarray, a lack of focus can lead to chaotic results. However, when guided by someone wise, new opportunities will blossom like spring flowers.
Transformation of the Fourth Line:
When the fourth line changes, it leads to the Gé (革) hexagram (Hexagram 49 in the Zhou Yi). This hexagram is formed by the lí (离) trigram below (fire) and the duì (兑) trigram above (lake). Fire and water are opposites, creating tension between them, but this tension also represents the potential for change and transformation. The hexagram suggests that transformation is a fundamental law of the universe. Change is inevitable, and it is important to adapt to it.
Philosophical Meaning of the Fifth Line of the Jì Jì Hexagram
Line text: Jiǔ wǔ (九五): Dōng lín shā niú, bù rú xī jiāo zhī nián jì, shí shòu qí fú.
Interpretation: This line compares two types of rituals: one performed in the eastern neighboring country where cattle are sacrificed in a grand ceremony, and the other performed in the western neighboring country, which is a more modest offering. The line suggests that the modest offering in the west will bring more genuine blessings.
Philosophical Message:
- Accumulating virtue and doing good deeds will ensure prosperity, and one should focus on modest and sincere actions to earn true blessings, not just showy displays.
- True rewards come from sincerity and humility, and greatness lies in the quiet pursuit of virtue.
- When seeking recognition or success, look not towards grand gestures but towards humble efforts that will yield lasting results.
- Much like how the chrysanthemum blooms under the autumn wind, true success will come naturally when pursued with honesty and patience.
Transformation of the Fifth Line:
When the fifth line changes, it leads to the Míng Yí (明夷) hexagram (Hexagram 36 in the Zhou Yi). This hexagram is formed by the lí (离) trigram below (brightness) and the kūn (坤) trigram above (earth). The combination symbolizes the sun sinking into the earth, which represents a time when light is obscured, and conditions are difficult. The hexagram advises caution, suggesting that in times of difficulty, one should remain humble and retreat, keeping one’s wisdom hidden until the right moment arises.
Philosophical Meaning of the Sixth Line of the Jì Jì Hexagram
Line text: Shàng liù (上六): Rú qí shǒu, lì.
Interpretation: This line describes a small fox crossing a river and getting its head wet, suggesting danger. It is a warning that even small risks can lead to significant consequences if not handled carefully.
Philosophical Message:
- Changes in circumstances should be approached with caution. Be aware of potential threats and guard against unforeseen challenges.
- Avoid becoming complacent, as minor issues may escalate if not dealt with promptly.
- Much like a small boat that might be stuck or delayed in troubled waters, it is essential to stay alert and prepared.
- The metaphor of a dried-up branch shows that things can appear to decline, but with proper care and action, they can rejuvenate and thrive once again.
Transformation of the Sixth Line:
When the sixth line changes, it leads to the Jiā Rén (家人) hexagram (Hexagram 37 in the Zhou Yi). This hexagram is formed by the lí (离) trigram below (fire) and the xùn (巽) trigram above (wind). The fire rises and turns into wind, symbolizing that inner strength and proper guidance should precede any outward action. This hexagram advises that one must first focus on managing their own family or inner circle before extending efforts outward to govern the world. When things are in harmony at home, success will follow in wider endeavors.